In a further escalation of conflict near the Indian border, at least 29 Myanmar soldiers entered India on Thursday, seeking refuge from an attack by insurgents on their military base. This follows the recent entry of 43 Myanmar soldiers into India’s Mizoram state earlier this week after their military bases were overrun by rebels, with nearly 40 of them subsequently being sent back through a different border crossing.
Myanmar’s military has faced prolonged conflicts with ethnic minority and other insurgencies, but the 2021 coup has led to increased coordination among anti-military forces, presenting a significant challenge to the ruling junta. Responding to the unrest, Myanmar’s military rulers have issued orders for government staff and individuals with military experience to prepare for potential service during emergencies.
Tin Maung Swe, the secretary of an administrative council in Naypyitaw, stated, “If necessary, such a unit might be required to go out and serve for natural disasters and security.” The junta’s council emphasized the need for preparedness in light of reported “heavy assaults” in several regions.
A parallel government, formed by pro-democracy politicians opposing the military, has initiated a “Road to Naypyitaw” campaign, aiming to take control of the capital. The junta reported facing “heavy assaults” from armed rebel soldiers in various states, leading to military positions being evacuated, and insurgents employing drones to drop bombs on military posts.
Expressing concern over the situation, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres called for all parties to protect civilians. The conflict in Myanmar since the 2021 coup has led to a groundswell of opposition, uniting pro-democracy activists and ethnic minority forces. Thousands of refugees have sought shelter in neighboring countries, including India.
Indian authorities responded to the latest influx of Myanmar soldiers, with Lalmalsawma Hnamte, a state police official, confirming that the soldiers were handed over to the federal paramilitary border guarding force. India’s Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson, Arindam Bagchi, reiterated New Delhi’s deep concern, calling for a cessation of violence and a resolution through dialogue.
As the situation unfolds, Western governments have re-imposed sanctions on the Myanmar junta in response to the coup, demanding the release of detained leaders and activists. Meanwhile, Myanmar’s Southeast Asian neighbors have attempted to encourage a peace process, though the junta has largely disregarded these efforts. The conflict has led to an increasing number of displaced people, with the UN reporting that the current figure exceeds two million.
The Arakan Army (AA), a rebel group in Rakhine State, claimed that police and military personnel had surrendered or been captured as its forces advanced. In response, the junta denounced the AA, accusing it of “destroying” Rakhine State. A video from Kayah State showed wounded junta troops surrendering to insurgents, who were seen offering medical assistance. The evolving situation raises concerns about the humanitarian impact and the need for diplomatic efforts to address the crisis in Myanmar.
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